Colby College Reviews

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Priscilla from Waterville, ME

12/06/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

10 out of 10 people found this review useful.
1 of 8

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Comments

Great for these types of students

Colby has a wide range of people, but all of us are fairly open-minded and accepting of other people and their lifestyles and cultures. Vocal music is extremely popular, and their theater department is as well. Our strongest majors are gov, econ, bio, and English, but all of our departments are pretty good. We love political correctness and to occasionally have intellectual discussions. We aren't competitive. We love cold and snow. But most importantly, a Colby student loves Colby.

Tips for prospective students

Interview, and afterwards send a thank-you note. Try and have at least one stand-out ability rather than be super-well rounded. Have a bit of quirkiness or outstanding ability. But still, have a strong application. Be environmentally-friendly, or be prepared and willing to become eco-friendly. Be open-minded. Visit the campus and you'll fall in love.

Bang for the buck

Colby is very reasonable about financial aid. It is need-based, and that worked best for me and my family's fiscal situation. It was one of the main reasons that I wanted to go to Colby-and I am able to attend here without serious fiscal concerns. But even if I had 53,000 dollars to spend every year, I would still go here. The education's amazing, as are the people and the Colby campus.

Am enjoying being here

I absolutely love it here. There is so much to do; you really have to pick and choose your favorites. There are clubs that reach every interest, sports at division I, division 3, and intramural level, and in addition to that, many campus events that both educate and entertain. It's very easy to keep busy, but entirely in a good way. The food here is great, too.

Am learning a lot

Colby's work load is understandable for a college, and entirely reasonable. With good time management skills, it is very easy to get everything done. I am learning so much; three of my classes this semester are discussion-based and I very much enjoy that aspect of learning not only from the professor, but from each other. My lecture class is interesting as well; my professor keeps the lecture interesting with his witticisms and examples. All of them are willing to help students outside of class and are very personable.

Angela from Bronx, NY

07/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

10 out of 10 people found this review useful.
2 of 8

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Comments

Campus Safety

The biggest problem at Colby is getting students to lock their doors! Colby's community is so trusting that people leave their Macbook Pros out in the library while they go eat dinner. I once lost my bag (which had my wallet and iPad) and was able to retrieve it from the security office without a hitch. In terms of individual safety, every college campus is afflicted with certain behaviors that are dangerous. However, campus security constantly makes rounds, especially on the weekends. In addition, students are allowed to call security to pick them up from wherever they are on campus and drop them off at their destination if they are feeling unsafe. Let's say I was in the library until 3 a.m. Now, at night, I am constantly plagued with the fear of a zombie revolution or supernatural nightmare, so I can easily have security pick me up and either drop me off or walk me to my room across campus. Demons averted!

Greek Life

There are no fraternities or sororities at Colby College. They have been banned for safety hazards associated with hazing.

Clubs and Activities

I am the president of STEP (Students Towards Equality and Peace), the Chair of Communications for SOBHU (Students Organized for Black and Hispanic Unity), and a CCOR facilitator (Campus Conversations on Race). I also participate in other clubs as a general member. As you can probably imagine, race relations and discrimination are my focus here, but I have found and enjoyed so many other groups. In addition to hundreds of clubs and sports teams, Colby is open to new ideas and will be willing to support students who look to further diversify their campus experience. For example, a friend of mine founded the Colby Animation Society (CAS), which caters to those who enjoy Japanese culture and animation. I never considered myself to be one of those people, but I attended my first meeting and was sucked in ever since: ii desu ne!

Great for these types of students

With every college comes a stereotypical type of student. The typical Colby student is mostly associated with sports and LL Bean boots, but that stereotype is strictly superficial. I, for one, have never touched a Bean boot in my life (though I hear they are comfortable and efficient). I believe any student who is willing to branch out and experience new things will have a blast at this institution.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year, the student body celebrates what is known as Doghead. This tradition, which takes place the week before St. Patrick's Day, involves dressing up in your best St. Patty's gear, partying it up from Friday night to Saturday morning, watching the sunrise on the library steps with the rest of the student body, going to breakfast together in Dana Dining Hall (and having a food fight), and then going to Champs (off campus) to dance til you drop. Some of the more dedicated Doghead participants are daring enough to swallow live goldfish as part of the tradition. It is a very strange, very enjoyable time.

Bang for the buck

Colby's comprehensive tuition cost is expensive, but the college does provide financial aid and a means of paying for your education. Colby College is also affiliated with the Posse Foundation, CAPS (Colby Achievement Program in the Sciences), and the Ralph Bunche Society, three scholarship programs that focus on bringing brilliant leaders and diversity to college campuses across the country. Finally, most events on campus are completely free, and the few events that require the purchasing of tickets are very cheap and affordable.

What to do for fun

Colby is located in Waterville, Maine. I was born and raised in New York City. The summer of my senior year I asked myself, What in the world could I POSSIBLY do in the middle of nowhere for nine months?. Despite its small town charm, there is quite a lot to do in Waterville, especially downtown Waterville. There are interesting little shops and places to socialize with friends or even a date. You can rent out a bike at Colby and get lost in a day-long 'round-the-town journey. My favorite place is Selah Tea because the food and tea taste great, the workers are friendly, and there are games like pictionary tucked away for those of us who like to stay and play. At Colby, there are always weekend events planned for those who do not participate in the drinking culture. If you take the time to look, you will definitely find your fill of recreation.

Food and Dining

Colby College has three dining halls on campus as well as a fast-food venue, the Spa. Each dining hall provides a different food style: The cooks in Foss Dining Hall specialize in vegetarian, vegan, and non-American cuisine. Dana Dining Hall serves up hamburgers, turkey burgers, pizza, and fries, as well as comfort foods and pastas. Finally, Robert's (commonly referred to as Bob's) Dinning Hall provides wholesome and more traditional dishes such as its thanksgiving dinner, which includes turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce. Each of the dining halls have a full salad bar. The Spa graces the students' palates with quesadillas, flat bread pizza, fries, chicken fritters, burgers, sandwiches, and more. Whatever your taste buds demand, Colby has it.

Dorm Life

I thought I would hate living so far (eight hours) from home, but I have actually grown to love dorm life! Most people, especially during their freshman year, are so friendly and welcoming because they, too, are interested in making friends. Every dorm has several CA's (Community Advisors) who work on creating events for their specific dorm. These events can range from going to a school-wide Blue Lights (acapella group) concert to having a T-shirt tie dying day just for their residents. There are many opportunities to meet new people and make friends. I, personally, love decorating my room and turning it into my own little haven (complete with mini fridge and microwave) and then inviting my closest friends over to eat popcorn and yell at the TV.

Academic Rigor

Academically, Colby sets very high expectations for the students, but there are countless opportunities to seek out help. Every professor I have ever encountered has been more than willing to assist me in anyway they can, both academically and personally. Finally, Colby provides you with two advisors (an academic advisor and an advising dean) who are there to answer any questions you may have about Colby's policies, academics, or the steps you must take to reach your career goals.

Tips for prospective students

As a rising junior, my greatest piece of advice is to come to Colby (or any college) with an open mind. Be ready to jump into things that interest you because that is where you will find most of your college friends and a means to relieve any school-related stresses (especially during finals week). College is ultimately what you make of it, and can very well be one of the most rewarding experiences in your lifetime.

In three sentences

Colby College provides a safe and welcoming environment to prospective and new students as well as an experience that is unique, challenging, and gratifying. The largest classes at Colby are probably the introductory science courses, which take place in rather large lecture halls, but most commonly the student to faculty ratio is 10 : 1. Finally, Colby has hundreds of established clubs, service opportunities, sports teams, and campus-wide events, but continues to approve new extra curricular activities at the student body's request.

Kristen from Atlanta, GA

06/30/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

7 out of 7 people found this review useful.
3 of 8

Categories

Comments

Great for these types of students

Students with different opinions, who are quiet, shy, open minded, opinionated, and want to make a difference. Overall...everybody and anybody who wants to better themselves. There are a ton of clubs and so many outlets and new ideas to choose from. You shouldn't let the idea of it being far away and/or a private college get to you. I'm a southern girl from GA and now I'm having a great time in Maine. If you have insight, drive and inspiration you should definitely go to this school.

Tips for prospective students

Do your AP's! They've helped me out so much, I've gotten rid of three distribution requirements because I knocked out subjects early. Also, bring plenty of winter clothes because it can get freezing :D. For minorities especially, Colby is fighting for you. They are desperate to get different faces on campus and as a result the incoming classes are becoming more and more diverse, so they will put down the cash to get you here. And finally enjoy yourself and try not to stress too much. It's the first year and the vibe around the campus is very lax and kicking back and having fun is what it's all about.

Bang for the buck

This college is especially good for minority students, because it is willing to shell out more cash. I don't know about other schools ,but when I applied in 2010 I went to Colby because the financial aid I received was astounding. You have to fight to keep it, but it was a very good motivator this year. Also, I have the added bonus of being a part of CAPS (Colby Achievement Program for Underrepresented Minorities in the Sciences) where Colby PAID ME to go to school in the summer and get a handle on chemistry and biology while doing undergraduate research. Can you say beautiful?

Am enjoying being here

I had a lot of fun my freshmen year at college. Even when the school brought me up during the school year during my senior year at high school I could tell the environment was perfect for me. I had a great time getting to know people and experiencing completely different points of view from my own. The only issue I had was a fickle roommate situation, but now that I'm a sophomore that has sorted itself out.

Am learning a lot

I am definitely learning here at Colby. Even after coming from a very good private school in the southeast, math and science continue to be a challenge for me. There are so many different types of classes and ideas just floating around the campus. The whole vibe of the place is educational.

Don't let the cold weather turn you away! It actually isn't that cold here in Maine. Plus, the fall and spring is worth the winter.

Am enjoying being here

There are great people, good food, a wonderful campus, and a bunch of things to do!

Am learning a lot

There are a wide variety of classes, great professors who are willing to meet with you outside of class if you need extra help. I am currently struggling to find what I want to major in because so many things interest me!

Bridget from Eliot, ME

very safe, the security does a great job. there aren't trying to get anyone in trouble. they just want to keep everyone safe and happy!

Greek Life

none.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

coot! also known as colby outdoor orientation trips helps first years have a group of people they are close with right when they arrive on campus. often the highlight of students careers here!

Bang for the buck

so many resources, opportunities, and connections that there is no reason why you shouldn't get a job right out of doing well here!

What to do for fun

in the winter you can skate on johnson pond, ski at sunday river or sugarloaf (discounted tickets too!), xc ski on the trails behind/on campus, play broomball on an iplay team, etc! you can rent anything outdoorsy (skis and skates included) at colby's outing club for a small yearly fee! go to a movie in waterville or get a coffee and watch the game in the spa. really unlimited options...go to portland or freeport for some shopping!

Food and Dining

the food is really quite good, especially for cafeteria style. the three dining halls each have a different feel which help make everyone happy! there is a little restaurant, the spa which sells sandwiches, awesome quesadillas, and other pub like food. there are many vegan and vegetarian options as well (mostly in foss dining hall).

Dorm Life

the community advisors are really great, they are like ra's at other school. they don't get you in trouble, instead they are more interested in your safety, well-being, and overall happiness and success. there are no freshman only dorms which is really great as you get to know people from many different grades.

Academic Rigor

very difficult, but there are so many resources (ex. chem help, calculus after hours, tutors, etc.) to make use of. older student are always willing to assist as well.

Tips for prospective students

as with any school get involved with as much as you can, but still remember time to relax and time for school work. the workload is very challenging but there are countless resources to help you with every subject at any time!

In three sentences

colby perfectly encompasses the liberal arts with plenty of research and internship opportunities. the campus, people, and staff/faculty are all truly beautiful on the inside and out. people are constantly looking out for you, while still keeping a competitive edge on athletics and academics.

Hannah from Lee, NH

Go visit, and talk to current students if interested. An overnight is always recommended if you're thinking seriously of attending.

In three sentences

It's a beautiful campus located near the coast and mountains of Maine. The academic rigor and research opportunities excite me. It appears to be excepting of people from all walks of life, and has a great community feel.

Isaac from Western NC

We ain't got none. I've heard rumors about an underground frat, but never actually met anyone in it that I knew of.

Great for these types of students

outdoorsy, friendly, preppy, motivated, athletic

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

COOT (the 3 day outdoor orientation trips for freshman, which include trips such as backpacking, canoeing, basecamping, farming, and many more) are really fun an awesome way to meet other first years and your upperclassmen Ieaders (COOT parents) and make important connections.

What to do for fun

Lots of events (clubs, athletics, presentations). Lots of parties on the weekends. Go out to the movies. Go hiking/skiing (there are lots of good places nearby--including Sugarloaf).

Food and Dining

Good, but gets repetitive after a while.

Tips for prospective students

Get good grades/test scores. Visit if you can and stay overnight with a student (if you're an athlete, contact the coach of your sport, otherwise maybe talk to the admissions office). Apply! It's free!! That's why I applied, and I ended up choosing Colby over Middlebury, Haverford, Oberlin, Vassar, and others.

In three sentences

The people here are generally nice. Classes are fairly challenging and give a fair amount of homework. Students generally don't get off campus as often as they might at other (more urban) schools, which builds a greater sense of community, but also creates a bit of a bubble.

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